Emily Carr’s Self-Portrait is an impressionist oil painting on canvas that she painted in 1938-39, depicting herself as a serious and stoic figure. The artwork measures 85.5 x 57.7 cm and is currently part of the National Gallery of Canada’s collection in Ottawa. Carr was a major Canadian artist known for her portrayal of the Pacific Northwest landscapes and aboriginal culture through Post-Impressionist and Modernist styles.
Carr was a pioneer artist in Canada whose recognition came later in life due to her unique vision of God as nature, which deviated from traditional religious institutions. Her art often included representations of stumps called “screamers” that depicted the victims of human greed, reflecting her activism towards environmental causes.
The National Gallery of Canada has an extensive collection that includes Carr’s Self-Portrait along with other indigenous and Canadian artworks. The gallery amplifies voices through art by showcasing works that reflect diverse narratives and stories, providing platforms for underrepresented artists such as Carr to be recognized for their contributions to the field. Overall, Emily Carr’s Self-Portrait is an exceptional example of a remarkable artist who portrayed the world through her unique perspectives while challenging traditional norms associated with art-making during her time
